FDA has announced that grease-proofing materials containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are no longer being sold for use in food packaging in the U.S. This means the major source of dietary exposure to PFAS from food packaging like fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, take-out paperboard containers, and pet food bags has been eliminated.
PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals” are a diverse group of thousands of chemicals that resist grease, oil, water, and heat. FDA has authorized certain of these substances for limited use in cookware, food packaging, and food processing equipment. Exposure to some types of PFAS have been linked to serious health effects.
The announcement marks the fulfillment of a voluntary commitment by manufacturers to not sell food contact substances containing certain PFAS intended for use as grease-proofing agents in the U.S. “This FDA-led effort represents a positive step forward as we continue to reevaluate chemicals authorized for use with, and in, food,” said Jim Jones, deputy commissioner for human foods, in a statement. In 2020, the FDA engaged companies to cease sales of grease-proofing substances that contain certain types of PFAS following a post-market safety assessment conducted by the agency.
FDA says it will continue to conduct research and update its evaluations using the most up-to-date science to ensure that its risk determinations continue to be accurate and based on current science.
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